Was very fond of Woody Woodpecker and his cartoons as a child. Still get much enjoyment out of them now as a young adult, even if there are more interesting in personality cartoon characters and better overall cartoons.
Both Woody and Buzz Buzzard come off well here and both are easy to root for in their situation. Woody's personality is toned down from his usual manic one but it does suit the story and it certainly does not make him a jerk. Buzz is a formidable and entertaining partner, but an ally here and not an enemy. The two work well together even though 'Alley to Bali' is a very atypical effort, no wild energy or the like here.
As ever, the animation is great. The characters are well drawn, but even better are the rich colours, meticulously detailed backgrounds and smooth backgrounds. The setting is different, looks great and has an authentic air.
Music is another strength here. It's characterful, lushly orchestrated and is not only dynamic with the action it even enhances it, there is also an eerie atmosphere that is again well suited. There is one amusing moment with Buzz and the bad breath.
However, 'Alley to Bali' is not the first time that a Woody Woodpecker cartoon has been different from the norm, 'Born to Peck' was atypical and that was a great cartoon, nostalgic, reflective and very moving, that saw a different side to Woody. With that being said, it is a case of different not coming off well.
For a Woody Woodpecker cartoon there is very little that's funny or clever, apart from Buzz and the bad breath. This is Woody at its darkest and strangest and the darkness and disturbing elements were taken too far, and the cartoon does drag.
In conclusion, while a change of pace is admirable 'Alley to Bali' didn't really work. 5/10 Bethany Cox